Put simply, Rey of Sunshine's purpose is to make the world a better place!

Rey of Sunshine was named after a family member, my brother-in-law. His name was Gary, but at a certain point in his life, he decided to call himself "Rey" or "El Rey" (it means "the king").

Sadly, he became very ill. He probably had Parkinson's. He lost the ability to walk, to eat, to do things most of us take for granted every day.

So, he spent his last years confined to a bed in a nursing facility. Nothing diminished his zest for life, though, his sense of humor, or the twinkle in his eye.

He was lonely in the care facility, though. The best possible facility had been found for him, but it was a long drive for everyone.

We did have family members who could and would visit. But, they were short on cash and gasoline.

So, that was our original purpose for Rey of Sunshine. We raised enough funds so that Rey's last days on earth were spent with relatives, people who laughed, joked, and helped him forget that his days were numbered.

After Rey passed away, we continued his charity.

We felt the best way to honor him was by doing good deeds as Rey of Sunshine.

We're currently raising funds for:

Friends of Big Bear Valley

(the family of bald eagles - parents Jackie and Shadow and their babies, Sunny and Gizmo)

Alley Cat Allies (this charity helps feral cat colonies survive and thrive, while working to educate people, improve legislation, and protect these misunderstood cats)